February Update

Since the last update in January we have had marginally better success with obtaining parts from Amerang (Thanks to Paul Vickery who has been most helpful). Lee at Hamilton Fabrications in Atherton has also been productive in laser cutting the engine mount (which also houses the 1200cc fuel cell) and engine mounting brackets which were finally installed in the first week of February.

The second week of February saw the full installation of the engine and auxiliary components although we then hit a glitch preventing us from testing last weekend (3/2/07) - the weight of the engine over the rear axle is too great for the springs on the shock absorbers which now require a more substantial solution. Even the front shocks are just about holding up. The suspension travel is also a concern which could lead to the whole car flipping over and anti-roll bars are being sourced. Mega Models in Farnworth have been very helpful in finding suitable replacement struts for the front and rear and the said anti-roll bars.

Our first test run of the car took place yesterday (11/2/07) with 2 runs of about 3 minutes each using a little under a third of the power available - this thing really moves some!! As it was getting dark the video hasn't come out very well on this event but the next run on Friday or Saturday (16/2/07 or 17/2/07 ) this weekend will be videoed and put on You Tube as soon as possible.

In the meantime up to date photos of the build so far will be on You Tube in 'slide-show' format via the following link - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7RLYPeWg3I

All videos and photos will be under the title 'Mach 2 Hamster', renamed from 'Jet Mach 2' after Mr Hammonds' valiant drive in his jet car. Hats off to Richard for his outstanding cool headedness and his remarkable recovery.